Ultimate Guide to Western Australian Wine Regions

Western Australia still produces fortified wines, sparkling wines and some dessert wines, but the region is best known for its luscious whites and reds. Whether you fancy red or white, you are sure to find something to satisfy your palate.

Australia's most famous red wine is Shiraz, but Shiraz grapes don't grow well in most of Western Australia's climate. Instead, the region's most notable reds include Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Merlot and Pinot Noir [source: Boehmer]. Other reds made in the region are:

Western Australia's many vineyards also serve as popular destinations for tourists. But if you can't imagine taking the long flight to one of Western Australia's wine regions to enjoy a glass of Shiraz, don't fret. Australia is one of the largest wine exporters in the world [source: Wine Australia]. This means you can find Australian wine as close as your corner grocery store. Remember to look for the regional name along with your grape preference when making your selection.

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Travel and Taste

Many vineyards offer wine tours, wine tastings and other amenities to accommodate tourists. Australian travel agencies even offer vacation packages that include side trips to vineyards in Western Australia. Each year, wine connoisseurs can enjoy one of the many festivals and events devoted to wine, such as the Perth Food and Wine Festival, Spring in the Valley and the Margaret River Wine Region Festival [source: A Nice Drop]. ­